camera identify
Try for Free
tab list
PictureThis
English
arrow
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
한국어
Nederlands
العربية
Svenska
Polskie
ภาษาไทย
Bahasa Melayu
Bahasa Indonesia
PictureThis
Search
Search Plants
Try for Free
Global
English
English
繁體中文
日本語
Español
Français
Deutsch
Pусский
Português
Italiano
한국어
Nederlands
العربية
Svenska
Polskie
ภาษาไทย
Bahasa Melayu
Bahasa Indonesia
This page looks better in the app
about about
About
care_guide care_guide
Care Guide
topic topic
Care FAQ
plant_info plant_info
More Info
pests pests
Pests & Diseases
toxic toxic
Toxicity
weed weed
Weed Control
distribution_map distribution_map
Distribution
care_scenes care_scenes
More About How-Tos
more_plants more_plants
Related Plants
pic top
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Alocasia cucullata
Also known as : Buddha's hand
Alocasia cucullata boasts large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves. The species is fairly low-maintenance, and so it has become a popular ornamental, especially in wet, warm places. Thought to originally hail from Southeast Asia, the plant is now found across much of the world's tropics. Although some species of chinese taro can be eaten, Chinese taro is poisonous. Nevertheless, some Buddhist traditions consider it to be good luck, and so it is cultivated in temples.
Water
Water
Twice per week
Sunlight
Sunlight
Partial sun
more
Toxic to Human & Pets
more
care guide

Care Guide for Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback
Watering Care
Watering Care
Moisture-loving, keep the soil moist but do not let water accumulate.
Details on Watering Care Watering Care
Fertilizing Care
Fertilizing Care
Chinese taro needs ample amounts of organic fertilizer for exceptional growing conditions. Fertilize your chinese taro with a potassium-based fertilizer at least three times during the summer and spring. You can also use a slow-release fertilizer once a month during these growing seasons.
Details on Fertilizing Care Fertilizing Care
Pruning
Pruning
Trim the diseased, withered leaves once a month.
Details on Pruning Pruning
Soil Care
Soil Care
Moderately acidic, Slightly acidic
Details on Soil Care Soil Care
Ideal Lighting
Ideal Lighting
Partial sun, Full sun, Full shade
Details on Sunlight Requirements Ideal Lighting
care guide bg
Know the light your plants really get.
Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.
Download the App
Picture This
A Botanist in Your Pocket
qrcode
Scan QR code to download
label
cover
Chinese taro
Water
Water
Twice per week
Sunlight
Sunlight
Partial sun
Hardiness Zones
Hardiness Zones
9 to 12
Planting Time
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
question

Questions About Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback
Watering Watering Watering
Pruning Pruning Pruning
Sunlight Sunlight Sunlight
Temperature Temperature Temperature
Fertilizing Fertilizing Fertilizing
What is the best way to water my Chinese taro?
There are plenty of viable ways to supply your Chinese taro with water. If you grow your plant in an indoor pot, for the Chinese taros in small pots, you can bring your potted plant to your kitchen sink. Then, use the faucet to add water to the container. By holding the pot in your hands, you should easily notice when the water begins to run through the pot’s drainage holes, at which point you can stop watering. The cold temperature will hurt the plants' root system, so please don't do this during winter or in cold climates. Most of the time, watering via your faucet is permissible for the Chinese taro. However, if the local tap water contains a high proportion of fluorine, chlorine or salts, you should consider using rainwater or lake water. Also, since the Chinese taro can respond well to overhead watering and watering directly into the soil, you can use a watering can, hose, or just about any tool you’d like to water it.
Read More more
What should I do if I water my Chinese taro too much or too little?
If you discover that you have underwatered your Chinese taro, your first step towards remedying the situation is to give your plant some water. Water deeply until excess water runs from the container’s drainage hole, or if you grow outside, water until the soil has become entirely moist. If you find your Chinese taro is receiving too much water, begin by reducing your watering schedule. You also want to address the soil and container your Chinese taro grows in. If either the soil or the container makes it difficult for water to drain efficiently, your plant will likely become overwatered again. Resolve the issue by moving your plant to looser soils and/or a container with bigger drainage holes or a more porous material. Also check the location of the plant. If the plant is in places like a corner, then it is recommended to move it to a window or around a door to enhance ventilation. Making sure the plants are in a well-ventilated location can reduce the occurrence of overwatering to some extent.
Read More more
How often should I water my Chinese taro?
The Chinese taro is not a species that requires consistent soil moisture. Instead, it is better to allow this plant’s soil to become dry between waterings. If you are like the many gardeners who grow Chinese taros in containers, you can judge whether or not it is time to add water by how dry the soil within the container is. For instance, if about top half of the soil in your container has become dry, it is time to add water. You can feel it by inserting your fingers or sticks into the soil or with soil moisture meter. For those who grow the Chinese taro outdoors, you can plan to do your watering about once every other week, provided it has not rained recently.
Read More more
How much water does my Chinese taro need?
After waiting for the first several layers of soil surrounding your Chinese taro’s root to become dry(top half of the soil), it is time to add enough water to make them moist again. The amount of water it takes to achieve that goal depends on if you use a container, how large that container is, and how large your plant itself is. For a small Chinese taro growing in a small to a medium-sized container, one to two cups may be enough to dampen the soil sufficiently. As you would expect, the volume of water you supply should increase for a larger plant. The best way to make sure your plant has received enough water is to stick your finger or a trowel into the soil and feel whether it is entirely moist. Alternatively, you can water until you see excess water draining from the holes at the bottom of your container.
Read More more
How can I tell if i'm watering my Chinese taro enough?
Overwatering and underwatering are both bad for the health of your Chinese taro. These two issues also manifest themselves in subtly different ways when they occur. Chinese taro that receives too little water may begin to develop yellow leaves. Underwatering may also cause the leaf margins to become brown and brittle. By contrast, Chinese taro that gets overwatered will often show yellow and brown marks on its leaves at the same time. Overwatering can also lead to diseases like root rot, some of which may also be visible on your plant. However, if you know the signs of overwatering and underwatering, you stand a good chance of correcting both issues.
Read More more
How should I water my Chinese taro through the seasons?
During spring and fall, your watering schedule for the Chinese taro will remain relatively the same, which will involve watering this plant about once every week. During summer, you may find that the hot weather causes your plant to need more water than usual, especially if it grows where there is a considerable amount of daily light exposure. In the winter, if it's hard to find some warm places for you plant, your Chinese taro will enter a dormant growth phase, in which it will need far less water than usual. At this time, you may get by without watering your plant at all. If you do choose to water during winter, you should not do so more often than once every two to three weeks.
Read More more
How should I water my Chinese taro at different growth stages?
After planting a new, young Chinese taro or after transplanting an older Chinese taro, you will probably need to give this plant more water than usual. Young plants often need consistent soil moisture during the early stages of their growth to help them adapt to their new growing locations. Transplants also need more water for a brief time to overcome transplant shock. In either case, you may need to water multiple times per week until your plant has exhibited continuous healthy growth. In most situations, your water should be moderate and should never be significant enough to cause overwatering.
Read More more
What's the difference between watering Chinese taro indoors and outdoors?
There are a few reasons why you may need to water an indoor Chinese taro more often than one that grows in the ground outdoors. First, indoor growing settings tend to be drier than outdoor ones, often due to the effect of air conditioning units. While thw size of the pot and the soil determines the warer accumulating ability. Additionally, when your plant grows indoors, it will rely on you entirely for its water By contrast, Chinese taro that grows outside can receive water from rain. If you are in an area with high rainfall, you may not have to give it extra watering. When there is not enough rain, you should water additionally to ensure that the soil does not dry out completely.
Read More more
icon
Get tips and tricks for your plants.
Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.
close
plant_info

Key Facts About Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback

Attributes of Chinese taro

Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Bloom Time
Spring, Summer
Plant Height
61 cm to 99 cm
Spread
2 m
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Color
White
Yellow
Green
Fruit Color
Red
Dormancy
Non-dormant
Leaf type
Evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 38 ℃

Symbolism

Fantastic, remarkable, heavenly, optimistic.

Usages

Garden Use
Chinese taro grows well as an ornamental plant in shade gardens with rich soil. It is also a valuable plant for pollinator-friendly gardens because its unusual flowers have the astonishing ability to heat up, releasing an abundance of fragrance that attracts beneficial insects to pollinate the plant when the flowers are in full bloom.

Scientific Classification of Chinese taro

icon
Find your perfect green friends.
Plan your green oasis based on your criteria: plant type, pet safety, skill level, sites, and more.
pests

Common Pests & Diseases About Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback
Common issues for Chinese taro based on 10 million real cases
Leaf rot
Leaf rot Leaf rot
Leaf rot
Leaf rot is a pervasive disease that severely impacts the health of Chinese taro, causing its vibrant leaves to wither and discolor. The disease, triggered by fungus, bacteria, or poor cultural practices, can stunt growth and diminish plant vibrancy if not properly managed.
Leaf mites
Leaf mites Leaf mites
Leaf mites
Leaf mites are tiny arachnids that damage Chinese taro plants by sucking the plant's sap, resulting in yellowing and deterioration of plant health. The mites can spread rapidly in unfavorable conditions and can severely impact the growth and vigor of the plant.
Brown blotch yellow edge
Brown blotch yellow edge Brown blotch yellow edge
Brown blotch yellow edge
Brown spot is a common plant disease impacting Chinese taro, leading to characteristic brown spots, wilted leaves, and interfered growth. If neglected, this fungal infection can ultimately result in death of the plant.
Leaf spot
Leaf spot Leaf spot
Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a common disease that causes specific damage to Chinese taro by creating circular or irregular brown or dark spots on leaves. This disease interferes with photosynthesis and can lead to defoliation, affecting the plant's overall health and productivity.
Brown spot
Brown spot Brown spot
Brown spot
This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.
Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.
Aged yellow and dry
Aged yellow and dry Aged yellow and dry
Aged yellow and dry
Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.
Solutions: If the yellowing and drying of leaves and flowers is a natural progression due to age, nothing can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible.
icon
Treat and prevent plant diseases.
AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.
close
plant poor
Leaf rot
Overview
Symptom
Causes
Treatment
Prevention
Active Period
What is Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
What is Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
Leaf rot is a pervasive disease that severely impacts the health of Chinese taro, causing its vibrant leaves to wither and discolor. The disease, triggered by fungus, bacteria, or poor cultural practices, can stunt growth and diminish plant vibrancy if not properly managed.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
Common symptoms on Chinese taro include yellowing leaves that gradually turn brown, wilting despite proper watering, and black or brown spots on leaves indicative of rotting. Once diseased, the plant's growth also becomes noticeably stunted.
What Causes Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
What Causes Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Fungus
Fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, and Rhizoctonia are commonly responsible for leaf rot.
2
Bacteria
Some strains of bacteria like Erwinia carotovora and Pseudomonas spp. can cause this disease.
3
Cultural practices
Overwatering and too much shade make the plant susceptible to leaf rot.
How to Treat Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
How to Treat Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Non pesticide
Pruning: Remove and destroy severely infected parts of the plant to stop spread.

Drainage: Improve soil and pot drainage, to avoid stagnation of water, which is conducive for pathogen growth.

Sunlight: Ensure that the plant gets enough sunlight to create unfavorable conditions for disease spread.
2
Pesticide
Fungicidal spray: Spraying a broad-spectrum fungicide can be effective to control fungal pathogens.

Bactericide: A bactericide can be used if bacterial infection is suspected.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
qrcode
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
plant poor
Leaf mites
Overview
Symptom
Causes
Treatment
Prevention
Active Period
What is Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
What is Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
Leaf mites are tiny arachnids that damage Chinese taro plants by sucking the plant's sap, resulting in yellowing and deterioration of plant health. The mites can spread rapidly in unfavorable conditions and can severely impact the growth and vigor of the plant.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
The key symptoms on Chinese taro include tiny yellow or brown spots on leaves. With time, these spots can cover entire leaves. Also, the plant may seem generally unhealthy and show stunted growth.
What Causes Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
What Causes Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Spider Mites
A common pest for Chinese taro, spider mites are tiny creatures that feed on plant tissue, causing the yellowing and curling of leaves.
How to Treat Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
How to Treat Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Non pesticide
Quarantine the Infected Plant: Prevent the spread of mites to other plants by isolating the infected plant.

Prune Infected Leaves: Remove and destroy affected leaves and stems to limit the spread.

Use beneficial insects: Introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to control the mite population.
2
Pesticide
Use Mite-specific Insecticides: Apply insecticides designed to kill mites without harming the plant, following manufacturer instructions.

Frequent Application: Frequent application of the pesticide might be needed as mites rapidly reproduce.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
qrcode
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
plant poor
Brown blotch yellow edge
Overview
Symptom
Causes
Treatment
Prevention
Active Period
What is Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
What is Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
Brown spot is a common plant disease impacting Chinese taro, leading to characteristic brown spots, wilted leaves, and interfered growth. If neglected, this fungal infection can ultimately result in death of the plant.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
On Chinese taro, indications begin as tiny, water-soaked lesions that gradually turn brown. As the disease progresses, these brown spots enlarge, and leaves may turn yellow or wilt. Slow growth is another sign.
What Causes Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
What Causes Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Fungus
Primarily, the disease is caused by a fungus of the genus Helminthosporium.
2
Environmental factors
Overly wet or humid conditions, poor airflow, and improper watering practices augment the problem.
How to Treat Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
How to Treat Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Non pesticide
Sanitation: Regular cleaning of the surrounding area and removal of affected parts can minimize fungal spread.

Watering practices: Water Chinese taro from below to avoid leaves' wetness and excessive humidity.
2
Pesticide
Fungicides: Application of a suitable fungicide can arrest the disease spread.

Copper-based sprays: They help in preventing further infestations by creating a protective barrier.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
qrcode
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
plant poor
Leaf spot
Overview
Symptom
Causes
Treatment
Prevention
Active Period
What is Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
What is Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
Leaf spot is a common disease that causes specific damage to Chinese taro by creating circular or irregular brown or dark spots on leaves. This disease interferes with photosynthesis and can lead to defoliation, affecting the plant's overall health and productivity.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
Initial signs of Leaf spot disease on Chinese taro include small, dark lesions on the leaves, which eventually grow into brown or black spots. Advanced stages may cause extensive leaf yellowing and drop off, significantly impacting the plant's health and vigour.
What Causes Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
What Causes Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Pathogen
Fungi such as Cercospora and Alternaria species are primary causes of leaf spot disease. They produce spores that spread by wind and rain.
2
Environment
Humid and wet environmental conditions usually facilitate the disease's development and spread.
How to Treat Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
How to Treat Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Non pesticide
Elimination: Remove promptly and discard infected leaves to prevent the disease's spread.

environment management: Improve air circulation and avoid water logging to discourage fungal growth.
2
Pesticide
Fungicides: Apply appropriate fungicides like Chlorothalonil or Mancozeb, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Bio-Fungicides: use Trichoderma-based Bio-Fungicides for eco-friendly control.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
qrcode
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
Brown spot
plant poor
Brown spot
This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.
Overview
Overview
Discolored spots on the foliage of plants are one of the most common disease problems people observe. These spots are caused by fungal and bacterial diseases, with most infections related to a fungal pathogen.
Brown spot can occurs on all houseplants, flowering ornamentals, vegetable plants, and leaves of trees, bushes, and shrubs. No plants are resistant to it, and the problem is worse in warm, wet environments. It can occur at any point in the life stage as long as leaves are present.
Small brownish spots appear on the foliage and enlarge as the disease progresses. In severe cases, the plant or tree is weakened when the lesions interrupt photosynthesis or cause defoliation.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
In most cases, brown spot only affects a small percentage of the whole plant, appearing on a small amount of the leaves. A small infection only puts minor stress on the plant. However, if left untreated and the disease progresses over numerous seasons, it will severely impact the health and productivity of the infected specimen.
  • Sporulation begins (reproduction of the fungal spores), and tiny spots appear on leaves.
  • Placement is often random and scattered as diseases are spread through raindrops.
  • May appear on lower leaves and the interior of the plant where humidity is higher.
  • Brown spots enlarge and grow large enough to touch neighboring spots to form a more prominent blotch.
  • Leaf margins may turn yellow.
  • Tiny black dots (fruiting bodies of the fungi) appear in the dead spots.
  • Blotches grow in size until the entire leaf is brown.
  • The leaf falls off the plant.
Severe Symptoms
  • Partial or complete premature defoliation
  • Reduced growth
  • Increased susceptibility to pests and other diseases
Disease Cause
Disease Cause
Brown spot, or leaf spot, is a common descriptive term given to several diseases affecting the leaves of plants and trees. Around 85% of diseases exhibiting leaf spots are due to fungus or fungus-like organisms. Sometimes brown spot is caused by a bacterial infection, or insect activity with similar symptoms.
When conditions are warm and the leaf surfaces are wet, fungal spores being transported by wind or rain land on the surface and cling to it. They do not rupture the cell walls but grow in the space between the plant plasma membrane and the plant cell wall. As the spores reproduce, they release toxins and enzymes that cause necrotic spots (i.e., dead tissue) on the leaves, allowing the fungi to consume the products released when the cells degrade.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
qrcode
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
Aged yellow and dry
plant poor
Aged yellow and dry
Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.
Overview
Overview
Regardless of the type of plant or where it is grown, at some point, it will begin to aged yellow and dry. This is a natural, unavoidable process that happens when the plant has completed all of the steps in its life.
Annual plants go through this process at the end of a single growing season. Perennial plants live for multiple years, if not tens or hundreds of years, but will still ultimately exhibit these symptoms.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
When plants have progressed through their natural developmental stages and are nearing the end of their lifecycle, they begin showing signs of decline. Leaves will start to yellow and droop, and over time they turn papery brown and dry.
Once completely dry, the leaves begin to fall from the plant until the entire plant has dried out.
Disease Cause
Disease Cause
At the end of its life, genetic coding within the plant increases the production of ethylene, a phytohormone that controls senescence or natural aging and death. Cell division stops, and the plant begins catabolizing resources to use in other parts of the plant.
As this happens, the tissues begin yellow and drying until the entire plant is desiccated and perishes.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
qrcode
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
toxic

Chinese taro and Their Toxicity

feedback
Feedback
feedback
* The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.
Slightly Toxic to Humans
Slightly Toxic to Humans
Chinese taro is a highly poisonous plant. Sap in the stems and leaves will cause irritation and inflammation if it comes into contact with the skin. Irritation can be severe, especially in people with lower body weights. Redness and itching are common and can last for several days. The small red fruits contain the highest concentration of the toxins sapotoxin and calcium oxalate raphids. Eating a small portion of the fruit can result in death. The toxins cause inflammation in vital organs. Due to the fruit’s bright color and small size, children are attracted to the plant and are the most at risk.
Toxic to Dogs
Toxic to Dogs
Chinese taro (genus Alocasia cucullata) can be moderately toxic to dogs. All parts of these plants contain sap filled with calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause both topical and gastrointestinal irritation. Symptoms of ingestion include a redness or irritation around the mouth and throat, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or diarrhea. Topical exposure to calcium oxalate may cause redness or itchiness of the skin. More severe symptoms are possible but rare, as its extreme distastefulness almost always prevents dogs from eating too much of this plant.
Toxic to Cats
Toxic to Cats
The leaves, stems, and roots of the chinese taro contain chemical compounds that are moderately to severely harmful to cats, and veterinary attention may be required after contact with this plant. These chemicals, called insoluble calcium oxalates, can cause reactions ranging from irritation to kidney failure in most severe cases. The most common symptoms after contact with the sap of this plant include the swollen mouth, lips, and tongue; difficulty eating, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, drooling, foaming, and seizures. Immediate medical attention is strongly advised.
icon
Identify toxic plants in your garden
Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for your loved one.
close
Who Is Most at Risk of Plant Poisoning?
Your pets like cats and dogs can be poisoned by them as well!
1
Do not let your lovely pets eat any parts, nor contact with the sap of toxic or unknown plants;
2
It’s better to kill those growing around your house. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants and gloves with sharp tools to dig it out completely;
3
Clean the tools with rubbing alcohol or soap and water but do not do that with bare hands;
4
Clean your hands and skin once exposed to plants with soap and water;
5
Consider using barrier creams that contain bentoquatam to prevent poison oak, ivy and sumac rashes;
6
Dump it in special trash cans in sealed garbage packages, and do not let your pets reach it;Do not let your lovely pets eat any parts, nor contact with the sap of toxic or unknown plants;
7
If you take your pets to hike with you in the wild, please don’t let them eat any plants that you don’t know;
8
Once your pets eat, touch or inhale anything from toxic plants and act abnormally, please call the doctors for help ASAP!
pets
Pets
Some pets are less likely than children to eat and touch just about everything. This is good, as a pet owner. However, you know your pet best, and it is up to you to keep them safe. There are plenty of poisonous weeds that can grow within the confines of your lawn, which might make your dogs or cats ill or worse if they eat them. Try to have an idea of what toxic plants grow in your area and keep them under control and your pets away from them.
pets
Common Toxic Houseplants
Common Toxic Houseplants
When it comes to decorating a house, there is nothing more refreshing than adding some beautiful houseplants. Some common house plants can also be toxic.

Aloe

aloe
Aloe is famous for its sunburn-soothing properties and its gorgeous desert design. However, many people do not realize that the latex the aloe vera plant produces can be mildly toxic to pets and children.

The latex contains a chemical compound known as saponin. Which when ingested, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and low blood sugar. This, if left unchecked, can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. The proper response is to contact poison control or a veterinarian to know what to do in your particular circumstance if either your child or pet consumes aloe.

The latex of the plant is similar to the sap of the tree. It is inside the leaf, but sticks mainly toward the edges. If aloe gel is prepared properly it should be safe for use, but be sure to apply it only topically when treating burns.

Philodendron

Philodendron
Philodendron, also known as sweetheart vine, has become a resident at many houses and even businesses. They are glossy green and the leaves elegantly split, displaying interesting designs. Behind this beauty there is a needle-like toxin called calcium oxalate crystals.

These crystals are held within the plant and only affect you, your pets, or your loved ones if the plant tissue is broken. If ingested, the crystals can cause severe swelling, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, burning and pain. If they are accidentally caught on the skin, they can cause skin irritation.

If anyone accidentally ingests philodendron and they find it difficult to breathe or their tongue starts to swell up, it is important to seek medical attention immediately to avoid suffocation. If you have very young children or pets who have a tendency to tear at plants, keep them away from any philodendrons.

Peace Lily

Peace Lily
Peace lilies produce stunningly white flowers that bring to mind peace and serenity. This is one reason they are invited into our homes and given a place to stay. However, similar to philodendrons, the peace lily contains oxalate crystals known as raphides.

The raphides, once ingested, will cause swelling and burning sensations and can also cause skin irritation. Both pets and humans can get these symptoms so it is important to keep these plants from anyone who is likely to tear or chew it. Symptoms can become dire if the raphides cause the tongue and throat to swell to a point where the person or pet is having difficulty breathing. Seek proper medical attention if this is the case.

Snake Plant

Snake Plant
The snake plant is an interesting and popular house plant. Its stark architecture and wavy coloring has made it a fan favorite. This plant too, however, is toxic when ingested or if the sap touches your skin.

Snake plant sap will cause rashes if it comes into contact with your skin. In addition, it will cause diarrhea and vomiting when ingested. Again these symptoms are very serious and would be best avoided by keeping snake plants out of reach or by choosing a different houseplant.
Common Toxic Garden Plants
Common Toxic Garden Plants

Daffodil

Daffodil
Daffodils are a strikingly colorful flower. This can sometimes bring them much attention not from just onlooking adults but children as well. Since kids are more drawn to colorful objects, they may have a higher chance of just grabbing the flower and eating it. Adults have also been known to accidentally grab daffodil bulbs instead of onions.

Why are these mistakes so dangerous? Daffodils contain lycorine, which can induce nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It also contains oxalates which can cause swelling and pain. The symptoms can be worse in animals, because if your pets eat daffodils they may experience drowsiness, low blood pressure or even liver damage.

Make sure to call poison control when these symptoms set in. The vomiting and diarrhea have been known to go away after 3 hours, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Ingesting liquids to keep hydration up can be important. If the patient is having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

Hydrangea

Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are unique, with their soft blue and pink flowers. They are a great addition to any garden, but should not be snacked on—not that you would want to. Hydrangeas can be especially nasty because they contain compounds known as glycosides. These will release hydrogen cyanide into the bloodstream when consumed. This will block your body’s ability to uptake oxygen to the cells in your body.

The way to combat this kind of poisoning is through getting IVs from the vet or doctor. It is important to contact your medical professional immediately since the symptoms can be fatal within minutes or hours.

Rhododendrons

Rhododendrons
Rhododendron, the state flower of Washington, is also toxic. The multitudinous, pink flowers can be quite dangerous. All parts of this plant are toxic, the leaves and seeds more so than the flowers. However, even the nectar of the flower is toxic and in the Mediterranean, where rhododendrons grow in more dense quantities, the honey from bees who gather rhododendron nectar can be poisonous.

Normally kids and pets do not eat enough to experience the full poisoning effect. However, just eating two leaves is enough to be considered dangerous. The grayanotoxin glycosides within the rhododendron can cause vomiting, diarrhea and irregular heartbeats. Things can get very serious when too much rhododendron is consumed and can lead to necessary medical intervention.

Start by calling poison control first if you suspect anyone has been munching on rhododendrons. The experts there will be able to help guide you through the necessary processes to cure your loved one.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb
Yummy rhubarb has a nasty side to it. While the stems are used in many recipes, including for rhubarb strawberry pie, the leaves are toxic. They contain oxalic acid which is known to blister the mouth, cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and kidney stones. The leaves are known to be more toxic to pets than humans, but in either case, it is important to contact poison control immediately to figure out necessary steps to cure the patient.
Common Toxic Weeds in the Yard
Common Toxic Weeds in the Yard

Bittersweet Nightshade

Bittersweet Nightshade
Nightshade is an invasive, noxious weed that is extremely poisonous. It has been found along the East and West Coast of the U.S. It makes its home in areas with disturbed soil. This could be near your garden or areas that have recently had bushes/trees put in.

These plants are dark green with purple flowers that develop into bright red berries. The whole plant is toxic and should be avoided by pets and children alike. If ingested it can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The colorful berries are especially enticing to young children. If you see any plants that look similar to tomato or pepper plants that you did not plant in your yard, it is best to just pull them immediately.

Call poison control immediately if you think someone has fallen victim to nightshade.

Buttercups

Buttercups
Buttercups are found throughout the United States, especially in wet areas. The shiny, yellow flowers will pop up in the springtime, accompanying their dandelion friends. However, unlike dandelions, buttercups are not edible.

Buttercups will release a compound called protoanemonin. This toxin is known to cause vomiting, diarrhea, bloody stool, hypersalivation, depression, blisters, and more. These symptoms will affect both humans and animals. The sap may also cause irritation when it comes into contact with skin. These yellow flowers are dangerous and children should be observed cautiously when around them.

Foxgloves

Foxgloves
Foxgloves are beautiful plants that build towers out of vivid purple bell-shaped blossoms. They are very pretty to look at, but they contain a compound known as digoxin. This chemical is used in certain medicines to help people with certain heart conditions. However, the medicine is made by specialists, whereas someone eating foxgloves will receive unregulated amounts of the chemical.

This toxin can make you vomit and lower your heartbeat. This often causes dizziness and faintness. It is extremely important to call poison control immediately to know what to do in the case of foxglove poisoning. Some people have confused the young leaves of foxglove with borage, making adult foragers at risk as well as kids and pets.
How to Tend to or Get Rid of Toxic Plants
How to Tend to or Get Rid of Toxic Plants
Now that you know where to start with toxic plant identification, let us discuss how to either tend to the poisonous plants you decide to keep or get rid of them that plague your yard.

How to Tend to Poisonous Plants

Many plants that are toxic when ingested are also skin irritants. The philodendron is a good example of this. When the sap comes into contact with skin, it can cause a rash to form. To help protect yourself when tending to toxic plants, it is important to wear some sort of gloves.
Tend
Latex gloves may be the best solution due to their disposability. Regular gloves could potentially keep the poisonous sap on their surface. If the gloves aren’t cleaned then you could accidentally touch the irritant or pass it to someone else.

In addition you will want to plan where to keep your deadly beauties. If you have a toxic indoor plant try to keep it up high or out of reach of children and pets. This will keep accidents few and far between. Another idea is keeping your plants in areas that are usually inaccessible to children or pets. Areas such as an office, study room, or guest bedroom could be good locations. If applicable, you could also set up a terrarium for your little plant baby, making it more difficult for curious hands or paws to access.
tend2
If you plan to have outdoor plants, location will be key. You will want to put plants in an area that will be inaccessible to children, pets and even wild animals. You will probably want to avoid planting the plants in the front of your house if kids walk by on a regular basis, just to be cautious. Having the plants behind a fence will be best, but use your discretion when choosing a spot.

How to Get Rid of Poisonous Plants

plants
The easiest but possibly most controversial way to get rid of poisonous plants is by using herbicides. This can be especially easy if you own a grass lawn and use an herbicide that targets broadleaf (non-grass) species. You can find many herbicides meant for yard use by simply searching the term online. Once you have purchased the herbicide you will want to make sure to follow the label posted on the container. If you follow the instructions precisely, then everything should run smoothly for you.

If you don’t plan on using herbicides, there are a few organic methods you can use to try to get rid of toxic plants. You can manually pull the plants out of the ground. This is probably one of the most difficult methods because there is no assurance that you will get the whole plant out this way.

You can also try pouring boiling hot water or spraying white vinegar on the target plants. This may take more time than using a synthetic herbicide, but you can feel a little better about using these products.

You can also try to use wood chips to cover a certain area where you do not want anything to grow. This will not stop all the weeds, but the few that make it through can be easily picked by hand.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
qrcode
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
Who Is Most at Risk of Plant Poisoning?
Everyone should keep the following in mind to prevent being poisoned:
1
Do not eat any parts, nor contact with the sap of toxic or unknown plants;
2
If you need to kill it, wear long-sleeved shirts, pants and gloves with sharp tools to dig it out completely;
3
Clean the tools with rubbing alcohol or soap and water but do not do that with bare hands;
4
Clean your hands and skin once exposed to plants with soap and water;
5
Consider using barrier creams that contain bentoquatam to prevent poison oak, ivy and sumac rashes;
6
Dump it in special trash cans in sealed garbage packages;
7
Wear properly when you hiking or working in the wilderness. Long pants, long sleeves, gloves, hiking shoes, etc., that protect you from being hurt by any plants;
8
Once you or your family aren’t feeling well after eating, touching or inhaling anything from toxic plants, please call your doctor for help ASAP!
Outdoor Workers
Outdoor Workers and Recreationalists
Those who enjoy the outdoors either as a hobby or as part of their work will rarely see a plant and decide to munch on it (although the scenario is not unheard of). However, they do tend to deal with moving through and brushing aside plants. These people are more at risk of being poisoned by touching toxic plants than by ingesting them.
Outdoor Workers
Foragers
Foragers
Foraging for food and medicinal plants is a desirable skill among people who want to feel at one with the land. This hobby can be very useful and enjoyable, but if done wrong , it can lead to disastrous effects. People who forage are picking and grabbing plants with the full intention of using those plants, most of the time to ingest them.
Foragers
Children
Children
While outdoor workers are more likely to touch poison and foragers are more likely to ingest poison, children can easily do both. These bundles of joy just love to run around and explore the world. They enjoy touching things and occasionally shoving random stuff in their mouth; this is a terrible combination with toxic plants in the mix.
If you let your children run about, it is important to know what are the local toxic plants that they could accidentally get into. Try to educate the children and steer them away from where the toxic plants are located.
Children
Common Toxic Houseplants
Common Toxic Houseplants
When it comes to decorating a house, there is nothing more refreshing than adding some beautiful houseplants. Some common house plants can also be toxic.

Aloe

aloe
Aloe is famous for its sunburn-soothing properties and its gorgeous desert design. However, many people do not realize that the latex the aloe vera plant produces can be mildly toxic to pets and children.

The latex contains a chemical compound known as saponin. Which when ingested, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and low blood sugar. This, if left unchecked, can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. The proper response is to contact poison control or a veterinarian to know what to do in your particular circumstance if either your child or pet consumes aloe.

The latex of the plant is similar to the sap of the tree. It is inside the leaf, but sticks mainly toward the edges. If aloe gel is prepared properly it should be safe for use, but be sure to apply it only topically when treating burns.

Philodendron

Philodendron
Philodendron, also known as sweetheart vine, has become a resident at many houses and even businesses. They are glossy green and the leaves elegantly split, displaying interesting designs. Behind this beauty there is a needle-like toxin called calcium oxalate crystals.

These crystals are held within the plant and only affect you, your pets, or your loved ones if the plant tissue is broken. If ingested, the crystals can cause severe swelling, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, burning and pain. If they are accidentally caught on the skin, they can cause skin irritation.

If anyone accidentally ingests philodendron and they find it difficult to breathe or their tongue starts to swell up, it is important to seek medical attention immediately to avoid suffocation. If you have very young children or pets who have a tendency to tear at plants, keep them away from any philodendrons.

Peace Lily

Peace Lily
Peace lilies produce stunningly white flowers that bring to mind peace and serenity. This is one reason they are invited into our homes and given a place to stay. However, similar to philodendrons, the peace lily contains oxalate crystals known as raphides.

The raphides, once ingested, will cause swelling and burning sensations and can also cause skin irritation. Both pets and humans can get these symptoms so it is important to keep these plants from anyone who is likely to tear or chew it. Symptoms can become dire if the raphides cause the tongue and throat to swell to a point where the person or pet is having difficulty breathing. Seek proper medical attention if this is the case.

Snake Plant

Snake Plant
The snake plant is an interesting and popular house plant. Its stark architecture and wavy coloring has made it a fan favorite. This plant too, however, is toxic when ingested or if the sap touches your skin.

Snake plant sap will cause rashes if it comes into contact with your skin. In addition, it will cause diarrhea and vomiting when ingested. Again these symptoms are very serious and would be best avoided by keeping snake plants out of reach or by choosing a different houseplant.
Common Toxic Garden Plants
Common Toxic Garden Plants

Daffodil

Daffodil
Daffodils are a strikingly colorful flower. This can sometimes bring them much attention not from just onlooking adults but children as well. Since kids are more drawn to colorful objects, they may have a higher chance of just grabbing the flower and eating it. Adults have also been known to accidentally grab daffodil bulbs instead of onions.

Why are these mistakes so dangerous? Daffodils contain lycorine, which can induce nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It also contains oxalates which can cause swelling and pain. The symptoms can be worse in animals, because if your pets eat daffodils they may experience drowsiness, low blood pressure or even liver damage.

Make sure to call poison control when these symptoms set in. The vomiting and diarrhea have been known to go away after 3 hours, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Ingesting liquids to keep hydration up can be important. If the patient is having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

Hydrangea

Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are unique, with their soft blue and pink flowers. They are a great addition to any garden, but should not be snacked on—not that you would want to. Hydrangeas can be especially nasty because they contain compounds known as glycosides. These will release hydrogen cyanide into the bloodstream when consumed. This will block your body’s ability to uptake oxygen to the cells in your body.

The way to combat this kind of poisoning is through getting IVs from the vet or doctor. It is important to contact your medical professional immediately since the symptoms can be fatal within minutes or hours.

Rhododendrons

Rhododendrons
Rhododendron, the state flower of Washington, is also toxic. The multitudinous, pink flowers can be quite dangerous. All parts of this plant are toxic, the leaves and seeds more so than the flowers. However, even the nectar of the flower is toxic and in the Mediterranean, where rhododendrons grow in more dense quantities, the honey from bees who gather rhododendron nectar can be poisonous.

Normally kids and pets do not eat enough to experience the full poisoning effect. However, just eating two leaves is enough to be considered dangerous. The grayanotoxin glycosides within the rhododendron can cause vomiting, diarrhea and irregular heartbeats. Things can get very serious when too much rhododendron is consumed and can lead to necessary medical intervention.

Start by calling poison control first if you suspect anyone has been munching on rhododendrons. The experts there will be able to help guide you through the necessary processes to cure your loved one.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb
Yummy rhubarb has a nasty side to it. While the stems are used in many recipes, including for rhubarb strawberry pie, the leaves are toxic. They contain oxalic acid which is known to blister the mouth, cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and kidney stones. The leaves are known to be more toxic to pets than humans, but in either case, it is important to contact poison control immediately to figure out necessary steps to cure the patient.
Common Toxic Weeds in the Yard
Common Toxic Weeds in the Yard

Bittersweet Nightshade

Bittersweet Nightshade
Nightshade is an invasive, noxious weed that is extremely poisonous. It has been found along the East and West Coast of the U.S. It makes its home in areas with disturbed soil. This could be near your garden or areas that have recently had bushes/trees put in.

These plants are dark green with purple flowers that develop into bright red berries. The whole plant is toxic and should be avoided by pets and children alike. If ingested it can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The colorful berries are especially enticing to young children. If you see any plants that look similar to tomato or pepper plants that you did not plant in your yard, it is best to just pull them immediately.

Call poison control immediately if you think someone has fallen victim to nightshade.

Buttercups

Buttercups
Buttercups are found throughout the United States, especially in wet areas. The shiny, yellow flowers will pop up in the springtime, accompanying their dandelion friends. However, unlike dandelions, buttercups are not edible.

Buttercups will release a compound called protoanemonin. This toxin is known to cause vomiting, diarrhea, bloody stool, hypersalivation, depression, blisters, and more. These symptoms will affect both humans and animals. The sap may also cause irritation when it comes into contact with skin. These yellow flowers are dangerous and children should be observed cautiously when around them.

Foxgloves

Foxgloves
Foxgloves are beautiful plants that build towers out of vivid purple bell-shaped blossoms. They are very pretty to look at, but they contain a compound known as digoxin. This chemical is used in certain medicines to help people with certain heart conditions. However, the medicine is made by specialists, whereas someone eating foxgloves will receive unregulated amounts of the chemical.

This toxin can make you vomit and lower your heartbeat. This often causes dizziness and faintness. It is extremely important to call poison control immediately to know what to do in the case of foxglove poisoning. Some people have confused the young leaves of foxglove with borage, making adult foragers at risk as well as kids and pets.
How to Tend to or Get Rid of Toxic Plants
How to Tend to or Get Rid of Toxic Plants
Now that you know where to start with toxic plant identification, let us discuss how to either tend to the poisonous plants you decide to keep or get rid of them that plague your yard.

How to Tend to Poisonous Plants

Many plants that are toxic when ingested are also skin irritants. The philodendron is a good example of this. When the sap comes into contact with skin, it can cause a rash to form. To help protect yourself when tending to toxic plants, it is important to wear some sort of gloves.
Tend
Latex gloves may be the best solution due to their disposability. Regular gloves could potentially keep the poisonous sap on their surface. If the gloves aren’t cleaned then you could accidentally touch the irritant or pass it to someone else.

In addition you will want to plan where to keep your deadly beauties. If you have a toxic indoor plant try to keep it up high or out of reach of children and pets. This will keep accidents few and far between. Another idea is keeping your plants in areas that are usually inaccessible to children or pets. Areas such as an office, study room, or guest bedroom could be good locations. If applicable, you could also set up a terrarium for your little plant baby, making it more difficult for curious hands or paws to access.
tend2
If you plan to have outdoor plants, location will be key. You will want to put plants in an area that will be inaccessible to children, pets and even wild animals. You will probably want to avoid planting the plants in the front of your house if kids walk by on a regular basis, just to be cautious. Having the plants behind a fence will be best, but use your discretion when choosing a spot.

How to Get Rid of Poisonous Plants

plants
The easiest but possibly most controversial way to get rid of poisonous plants is by using herbicides. This can be especially easy if you own a grass lawn and use an herbicide that targets broadleaf (non-grass) species. You can find many herbicides meant for yard use by simply searching the term online. Once you have purchased the herbicide you will want to make sure to follow the label posted on the container. If you follow the instructions precisely, then everything should run smoothly for you.

If you don’t plan on using herbicides, there are a few organic methods you can use to try to get rid of toxic plants. You can manually pull the plants out of the ground. This is probably one of the most difficult methods because there is no assurance that you will get the whole plant out this way.

You can also try pouring boiling hot water or spraying white vinegar on the target plants. This may take more time than using a synthetic herbicide, but you can feel a little better about using these products.

You can also try to use wood chips to cover a certain area where you do not want anything to grow. This will not stop all the weeds, but the few that make it through can be easily picked by hand.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
qrcode
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
weed

Weed Control About Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback
Toxic weed
Although considered a common ornamental, chinese taro can be mildly toxic to humans as well as animals. The insoluble oxalate crystals found in the plant will irritate the skin once contact and cause oral pain when ingested.
weed
icon
Do you have weeds in your garden?
Differentiate them from your plants by a picture, and learn how to control them.
distribution

Distribution of Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback

Habitat of Chinese taro

Human habitation, disturbed areas
Northern Hemisphere
South Hemisphere

Distribution Map of Chinese taro

Chinese taro is native to the tropical regions of Asia and thrives in a variety of environments within its natural range. Beyond its native habitat, chinese taro has been introduced to multiple other tropical and subtropical regions where it is cultivated for its ornamental value. In some parts where it has been introduced, chinese taro is sometimes thought to be mildly competitive with local flora but has not been widely reported to severely disrupt ecosystems. It is well-established both in its natural habitat and in areas where it has been introduced for cultivation.
distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
habit
care_scenes

More Info on Chinese Taro Growth and Care

feedback
Feedback
Basic Care Guide
Common Pests & Diseases
Explore More
Lighting
Partial sun
Chinese taro thrives in areas receiving consistent yet not uninterrupted sunlight. It can adapt to environments receiving sunlight all day or very minimal sunlight. Yet, access to mild sun is crucial for healthy, vigorous growth. Excessive or insufficient light exposure may harm its development, affecting its vitality negatively.
Best Sunlight Practices
Transplant
18-24 inches
Transplant chinese taro during mid-spring to early summer or late fall to late winter for optimal growth. Choose a well-draining location with bright indirect sunlight. Be mindful of frost-sensitive roots, and provide necessary protection during cooler months. Happy transplanting!
Transplant Techniques
Temperature
0 - 43 ℃
The chinese taro plant is native to regions that experience a tropical climate, thus it requires a warm and humid environment to thrive. Its preferred temperature range fluctuates between 68 to 100 ℉ (20 to 38 ℃), with an optimal temperature of around 82 ℉ (28 ℃). In cooler temperatures, the plant may become dormant, whereas excessive heat can cause stress on the foliage. During winter, it is suggested to keep the temperature above 60 ℉ (15.5 ℃) to prevent leaf drop and root rot.
Temp for Healthy Growth
Pruning
Spring, Winter
Characterized by its heart-shaped leaves and hood-like petiole lobes, chinese taro thrives with proper care. Key pruning techniques include removing yellowing or dead foliage and trimming back leggy stems to encourage bushier growth. Prune during early spring or late winter for optimal health, promoting rejuvenation after a period of dormancy. Specific considerations include using sterilized tools to prevent disease transmission and disposing of trimmed material to deter pests. Pruning enhances foliage density and plant vigor, making chinese taro more aesthetically pleasing.
Pruning techniques
Propagation
Spring, Autumn
Chinese taro primarily propagates through division during the ideal seasons of Spring and Autumn. Propagation tends to be easy, with success indicated by new growth. Regular watering post-propagation is crucial for the plant's establishment.
Propagation Techniques
Overwinter
0 - 43 ℃
Chinese taro, indigenous to the tropical climates of Southeast Asia, is naturally unaccustomed to harsh winters. Generally, it retreats into a dormant, energy-saving mode. As an overwintering tender perennial, it requires a frost-free environment with moderate humidity. Gardeners should consider adopting protective measures: bringing it indoors, using humidifiers, and reducing watering to mimic its natural dormancy. Full revival can be expected in more favorable conditions come spring.
Winter Techniques
Leaf rot
Leaf rot is a pervasive disease that severely impacts the health of Chinese taro, causing its vibrant leaves to wither and discolor. The disease, triggered by fungus, bacteria, or poor cultural practices, can stunt growth and diminish plant vibrancy if not properly managed.
Learn More About the Disease
Leaf mites
Leaf mites are tiny arachnids that damage Chinese taro plants by sucking the plant's sap, resulting in yellowing and deterioration of plant health. The mites can spread rapidly in unfavorable conditions and can severely impact the growth and vigor of the plant.
Learn More About the Disease
Brown blotch yellow edge
Brown spot is a common plant disease impacting Chinese taro, leading to characteristic brown spots, wilted leaves, and interfered growth. If neglected, this fungal infection can ultimately result in death of the plant.
Learn More About the Disease
Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a common disease that causes specific damage to Chinese taro by creating circular or irregular brown or dark spots on leaves. This disease interferes with photosynthesis and can lead to defoliation, affecting the plant's overall health and productivity.
Learn More About the Disease
Toxic
Slightly Toxic to Humans
Chinese taro is a highly poisonous plant. Sap in the stems and leaves will cause irritation and inflammation if it comes into contact with the skin. Irritation can be severe, especially in people with lower body weights. Redness and itching are common and can last for several days. The small red fruits contain the highest concentration of the toxins sapotoxin and calcium oxalate raphids. Eating a small portion of the fruit can result in death. The toxins cause inflammation in vital organs. Due to the fruit’s bright color and small size, children are attracted to the plant and are the most at risk.
Toxic Details
Feng shui direction
North
The chinese taro exhibits intriguing Feng Shui compatibility, bringing balance and refreshing energy into a space. It is well-aligned with a North-facing direction, promoting the enrichment of Feng Shui's water element, often associated with wisdom and tranquility. However, interpretations may vary based on individual perspectives.
Fengshui Details
other_plant

Plants Related to Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback
Peregrina
Peregrina
Peregrina is a popular border and decorative plant because of its gorgeous red or pink flowers that bloom all year. This shrub, native to Cuba and widely propagated worldwide, attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. However, extreme caution is suggested because all parts of this plant are toxic when consumed.
Xanadu
Xanadu
Xanadu (Philodendron xanadu) is often called "Winterbourn," and is cultivated for indoor use. It thrives in brighter conditions compared to most other philodendrons. However, it grows best in direct artificial light or direct sunlight. This species will turn yellow if it is kept too moist.
American black nightshade
American black nightshade
American black nightshade (*Solanum americanum*) is a flowering herb with unknown native origins, and it is poisonous. Its berries should not be consumed, as berry consumption has resulted in death in children.
Cylindrical snake plant
Cylindrical snake plant
The cylindrical snake plant (Sansevieria cylindrica) is a succulent houseplant that can grow up to 2 m tall. It has slender, upright leaves that are striped and resemble a snake. This species is a hardy succulent and can grow in conditions with low light. It adapts to dry, sunny locations with well-drained soil.
Cabbage tree
Cabbage tree
Cabbage tree (*Cordyline australis*) is a subtropical palm-like tree that thrives in environments with fertile, well-drained soil. Salt and drought tolerant, they are ideal for sunny borders or containers. The cabbage tree blooms in late spring to early summer with small, fragrant white flowers. It's not an unusual sight in city courtyards and coastal gardens.
Night-blooming jasmine
Night-blooming jasmine
Night-blooming jasmine blooms in the months of summer through fall with tubular white blossoms that give off a distinctive fragrance. As its name implies night-blooming jasmine flowers open only during the nighttime hours and close up tightly during the day. When the flowers are open their perfume can permeate an area from 91 to 152 m.
Cape jasmine
Cape jasmine
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.
Golden pothos
Golden pothos
The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.
View More Plants
close
product icon
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants and unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
product icon
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
product icon
Nearly 5 years of research
product icon
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
ad
ad
Botanist in your pocket
Scan the QR code with your phone camera to download the app
About
Care Guide
Care FAQ
More Info
Pests & Diseases
Toxicity
Weed Control
Distribution
More About How-Tos
Related Plants
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Chinese taro
Alocasia cucullata
Also known as: Buddha's hand
Alocasia cucullata boasts large, glossy, heart-shaped leaves. The species is fairly low-maintenance, and so it has become a popular ornamental, especially in wet, warm places. Thought to originally hail from Southeast Asia, the plant is now found across much of the world's tropics. Although some species of chinese taro can be eaten, Chinese taro is poisonous. Nevertheless, some Buddhist traditions consider it to be good luck, and so it is cultivated in temples.
Water
Water
Twice per week
Sunlight
Sunlight
Partial sun
more
Toxic to Human & Pets
more
question

Questions About Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback
Watering Watering Watering
Pruning Pruning Pruning
Sunlight Sunlight Sunlight
Temperature Temperature Temperature
Fertilizing Fertilizing Fertilizing
What is the best way to water my Chinese taro?
more
What should I do if I water my Chinese taro too much or too little?
more
How often should I water my Chinese taro?
more
How much water does my Chinese taro need?
more
How can I tell if i'm watering my Chinese taro enough?
more
How should I water my Chinese taro through the seasons?
more
How should I water my Chinese taro at different growth stages?
more
What's the difference between watering Chinese taro indoors and outdoors?
more
icon
Get tips and tricks for your plants.
Keep your plants happy and healthy with our guide to watering, lighting, feeding and more.
Download the App
close
plant_info

Key Facts About Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback

Attributes of Chinese taro

Lifespan
Perennial
Plant Type
Herb
Planting Time
Spring, Summer
Bloom Time
Spring, Summer
Plant Height
61 cm to 99 cm
Spread
2 m
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Color
White
Yellow
Green
Fruit Color
Red
Dormancy
Non-dormant
Leaf type
Evergreen
Ideal Temperature
20 - 38 ℃
icon
Gain more valuable plant knowledge
Explore a rich botanical encyclopedia for deeper insights
Download the App

Symbolism

Fantastic, remarkable, heavenly, optimistic.

Usages

Garden Use
Chinese taro grows well as an ornamental plant in shade gardens with rich soil. It is also a valuable plant for pollinator-friendly gardens because its unusual flowers have the astonishing ability to heat up, releasing an abundance of fragrance that attracts beneficial insects to pollinate the plant when the flowers are in full bloom.

Scientific Classification of Chinese taro

icon
Never miss a care task again!
Plant care made easier than ever with our tailor-made smart care reminder.
Download the App
pests

Common Pests & Diseases About Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback
Common issues for Chinese taro based on 10 million real cases
Leaf rot
Leaf rot Leaf rot Leaf rot
Leaf rot is a pervasive disease that severely impacts the health of Chinese taro, causing its vibrant leaves to wither and discolor. The disease, triggered by fungus, bacteria, or poor cultural practices, can stunt growth and diminish plant vibrancy if not properly managed.
Learn More About the Leaf rot more
Leaf mites
Leaf mites Leaf mites Leaf mites
Leaf mites are tiny arachnids that damage Chinese taro plants by sucking the plant's sap, resulting in yellowing and deterioration of plant health. The mites can spread rapidly in unfavorable conditions and can severely impact the growth and vigor of the plant.
Learn More About the Leaf mites more
Brown blotch yellow edge
Brown blotch yellow edge Brown blotch yellow edge Brown blotch yellow edge
Brown spot is a common plant disease impacting Chinese taro, leading to characteristic brown spots, wilted leaves, and interfered growth. If neglected, this fungal infection can ultimately result in death of the plant.
Learn More About the Brown blotch yellow edge more
Leaf spot
Leaf spot Leaf spot Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a common disease that causes specific damage to Chinese taro by creating circular or irregular brown or dark spots on leaves. This disease interferes with photosynthesis and can lead to defoliation, affecting the plant's overall health and productivity.
Learn More About the Leaf spot more
Brown spot
Brown spot Brown spot Brown spot
This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.
Solutions: In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary. Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.
Learn More About the Brown spot more
Aged yellow and dry
Aged yellow and dry Aged yellow and dry Aged yellow and dry
Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.
Solutions: If the yellowing and drying of leaves and flowers is a natural progression due to age, nothing can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible.
Learn More About the Aged yellow and dry more
icon
Treat and prevent plant diseases.
AI-powered plant doctor helps you diagnose plant problems in seconds.
Download the App
close
plant poor
Leaf rot
Overview
Symptom
Causes
Treatment
Prevention
Active Period
What is Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
What is Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
Leaf rot is a pervasive disease that severely impacts the health of Chinese taro, causing its vibrant leaves to wither and discolor. The disease, triggered by fungus, bacteria, or poor cultural practices, can stunt growth and diminish plant vibrancy if not properly managed.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
Common symptoms on Chinese taro include yellowing leaves that gradually turn brown, wilting despite proper watering, and black or brown spots on leaves indicative of rotting. Once diseased, the plant's growth also becomes noticeably stunted.
What Causes Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
What Causes Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Fungus
Fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, and Rhizoctonia are commonly responsible for leaf rot.
2
Bacteria
Some strains of bacteria like Erwinia carotovora and Pseudomonas spp. can cause this disease.
3
Cultural practices
Overwatering and too much shade make the plant susceptible to leaf rot.
How to Treat Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
How to Treat Leaf rot Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Non pesticide
Pruning: Remove and destroy severely infected parts of the plant to stop spread.

Drainage: Improve soil and pot drainage, to avoid stagnation of water, which is conducive for pathogen growth.

Sunlight: Ensure that the plant gets enough sunlight to create unfavorable conditions for disease spread.
2
Pesticide
Fungicidal spray: Spraying a broad-spectrum fungicide can be effective to control fungal pathogens.

Bactericide: A bactericide can be used if bacterial infection is suspected.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
close
plant poor
Leaf mites
Overview
Symptom
Causes
Treatment
Prevention
Active Period
What is Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
What is Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
Leaf mites are tiny arachnids that damage Chinese taro plants by sucking the plant's sap, resulting in yellowing and deterioration of plant health. The mites can spread rapidly in unfavorable conditions and can severely impact the growth and vigor of the plant.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
The key symptoms on Chinese taro include tiny yellow or brown spots on leaves. With time, these spots can cover entire leaves. Also, the plant may seem generally unhealthy and show stunted growth.
What Causes Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
What Causes Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Spider Mites
A common pest for Chinese taro, spider mites are tiny creatures that feed on plant tissue, causing the yellowing and curling of leaves.
How to Treat Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
How to Treat Leaf mites Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Non pesticide
Quarantine the Infected Plant: Prevent the spread of mites to other plants by isolating the infected plant.

Prune Infected Leaves: Remove and destroy affected leaves and stems to limit the spread.

Use beneficial insects: Introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to control the mite population.
2
Pesticide
Use Mite-specific Insecticides: Apply insecticides designed to kill mites without harming the plant, following manufacturer instructions.

Frequent Application: Frequent application of the pesticide might be needed as mites rapidly reproduce.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
close
plant poor
Brown blotch yellow edge
Overview
Symptom
Causes
Treatment
Prevention
Active Period
What is Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
What is Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
Brown spot is a common plant disease impacting Chinese taro, leading to characteristic brown spots, wilted leaves, and interfered growth. If neglected, this fungal infection can ultimately result in death of the plant.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
On Chinese taro, indications begin as tiny, water-soaked lesions that gradually turn brown. As the disease progresses, these brown spots enlarge, and leaves may turn yellow or wilt. Slow growth is another sign.
What Causes Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
What Causes Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Fungus
Primarily, the disease is caused by a fungus of the genus Helminthosporium.
2
Environmental factors
Overly wet or humid conditions, poor airflow, and improper watering practices augment the problem.
How to Treat Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
How to Treat Brown blotch yellow edge Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Non pesticide
Sanitation: Regular cleaning of the surrounding area and removal of affected parts can minimize fungal spread.

Watering practices: Water Chinese taro from below to avoid leaves' wetness and excessive humidity.
2
Pesticide
Fungicides: Application of a suitable fungicide can arrest the disease spread.

Copper-based sprays: They help in preventing further infestations by creating a protective barrier.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
close
plant poor
Leaf spot
Overview
Symptom
Causes
Treatment
Prevention
Active Period
What is Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
What is Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
Leaf spot is a common disease that causes specific damage to Chinese taro by creating circular or irregular brown or dark spots on leaves. This disease interferes with photosynthesis and can lead to defoliation, affecting the plant's overall health and productivity.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
Initial signs of Leaf spot disease on Chinese taro include small, dark lesions on the leaves, which eventually grow into brown or black spots. Advanced stages may cause extensive leaf yellowing and drop off, significantly impacting the plant's health and vigour.
What Causes Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
What Causes Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Pathogen
Fungi such as Cercospora and Alternaria species are primary causes of leaf spot disease. They produce spores that spread by wind and rain.
2
Environment
Humid and wet environmental conditions usually facilitate the disease's development and spread.
How to Treat Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
How to Treat Leaf spot Disease on Chinese taro?
1
Non pesticide
Elimination: Remove promptly and discard infected leaves to prevent the disease's spread.

environment management: Improve air circulation and avoid water logging to discourage fungal growth.
2
Pesticide
Fungicides: Apply appropriate fungicides like Chlorothalonil or Mancozeb, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Bio-Fungicides: use Trichoderma-based Bio-Fungicides for eco-friendly control.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
close
Brown spot
plant poor
Brown spot
This infection can cause brown spots or patches to appear on the plant.
Overview
Overview
Discolored spots on the foliage of plants are one of the most common disease problems people observe. These spots are caused by fungal and bacterial diseases, with most infections related to a fungal pathogen.
Brown spot can occurs on all houseplants, flowering ornamentals, vegetable plants, and leaves of trees, bushes, and shrubs. No plants are resistant to it, and the problem is worse in warm, wet environments. It can occur at any point in the life stage as long as leaves are present.
Small brownish spots appear on the foliage and enlarge as the disease progresses. In severe cases, the plant or tree is weakened when the lesions interrupt photosynthesis or cause defoliation.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
In most cases, brown spot only affects a small percentage of the whole plant, appearing on a small amount of the leaves. A small infection only puts minor stress on the plant. However, if left untreated and the disease progresses over numerous seasons, it will severely impact the health and productivity of the infected specimen.
  • Sporulation begins (reproduction of the fungal spores), and tiny spots appear on leaves.
  • Placement is often random and scattered as diseases are spread through raindrops.
  • May appear on lower leaves and the interior of the plant where humidity is higher.
  • Brown spots enlarge and grow large enough to touch neighboring spots to form a more prominent blotch.
  • Leaf margins may turn yellow.
  • Tiny black dots (fruiting bodies of the fungi) appear in the dead spots.
  • Blotches grow in size until the entire leaf is brown.
  • The leaf falls off the plant.
Severe Symptoms
  • Partial or complete premature defoliation
  • Reduced growth
  • Increased susceptibility to pests and other diseases
Disease Cause
Disease Cause
Brown spot, or leaf spot, is a common descriptive term given to several diseases affecting the leaves of plants and trees. Around 85% of diseases exhibiting leaf spots are due to fungus or fungus-like organisms. Sometimes brown spot is caused by a bacterial infection, or insect activity with similar symptoms.
When conditions are warm and the leaf surfaces are wet, fungal spores being transported by wind or rain land on the surface and cling to it. They do not rupture the cell walls but grow in the space between the plant plasma membrane and the plant cell wall. As the spores reproduce, they release toxins and enzymes that cause necrotic spots (i.e., dead tissue) on the leaves, allowing the fungi to consume the products released when the cells degrade.
Solutions
Solutions
In minor cases of brown spot, there isn’t any need to treat the disease. However, if much of the foliage is affected and defoliation occurs, the plant will benefit from getting rid of the infection. It is recommended to start by applying organic treatment options, working up to the more potent synthetic, chemical fungicides if necessary.
Organic options won’t kill the fungus, but will prevent it from spreading.
  1. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of liquid soap in a gallon of water. Using a spray bottle, spray on tops and bottoms of leaves until the mixture drips off. Repeat every two weeks until existing spots stop enlarging and new spots no longer appear.
  2. Spray a copper-based fungicidal soap on the leaves, coating the top and bottom leaf surfaces. Reapply as directed on the product label. Copper penetrates the leaf surface and prevents germination of spores so the fungus cannot spread.
  3. Apply an all-purpose fungicide to the entire plant, following the label instructions carefully.
Prevention
Prevention
Like many other diseases, it is easier to prevent brown spot than cure it, and this is done through cultural practices.
  • Clear fall leaves from the ground before winter to minimize places where fungi and bacteria can overwinter.
  • Maintain good air movement between plants through proper plant spacing.
  • Increase air circulation through the center of plants through pruning.
  • Thoroughly clean all pruning tools after working with diseased plants.
  • Never dispose of disease plant material in a compost pile.
  • Avoid overhead watering to keep moisture off of the foliage.
  • Keep plants healthy by providing adequate sunlight, water, and fertilizer.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
close
Aged yellow and dry
plant poor
Aged yellow and dry
Natural aging can cause leaves to turn yellow and dry out.
Overview
Overview
Regardless of the type of plant or where it is grown, at some point, it will begin to aged yellow and dry. This is a natural, unavoidable process that happens when the plant has completed all of the steps in its life.
Annual plants go through this process at the end of a single growing season. Perennial plants live for multiple years, if not tens or hundreds of years, but will still ultimately exhibit these symptoms.
Symptom Analysis
Symptom Analysis
When plants have progressed through their natural developmental stages and are nearing the end of their lifecycle, they begin showing signs of decline. Leaves will start to yellow and droop, and over time they turn papery brown and dry.
Once completely dry, the leaves begin to fall from the plant until the entire plant has dried out.
Disease Cause
Disease Cause
At the end of its life, genetic coding within the plant increases the production of ethylene, a phytohormone that controls senescence or natural aging and death. Cell division stops, and the plant begins catabolizing resources to use in other parts of the plant.
As this happens, the tissues begin yellow and drying until the entire plant is desiccated and perishes.
Solutions
Solutions
If the yellowing and drying of leaves and flowers is a natural progression due to age, nothing can be done to slow or stop the process. Once hormones within the plant begin the process of senescence, it’s irreversible.
Prevention
Prevention
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent plants from dying of “old age.” To help prolong their life, and put off symptoms of aged yellow and dry for as long as possible, take care of them by giving them enough water, fertilizing them appropriately, and making sure they get enough sunlight.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
toxic

Chinese taro and Their Toxicity

feedback
Feedback
feedback
* The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.
Slightly Toxic to Humans
Chinese taro is a highly poisonous plant. Sap in the stems and leaves will cause irritation and inflammation if it comes into contact with the skin. Irritation can be severe, especially in people with lower body weights. Redness and itching are common and can last for several days. The small red fruits contain the highest concentration of the toxins sapotoxin and calcium oxalate raphids. Eating a small portion of the fruit can result in death. The toxins cause inflammation in vital organs. Due to the fruit’s bright color and small size, children are attracted to the plant and are the most at risk.
More Info About Toxicity
toxic detail more
Toxic to Dogs
Chinese taro (genus Alocasia cucullata) can be moderately toxic to dogs. All parts of these plants contain sap filled with calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause both topical and gastrointestinal irritation. Symptoms of ingestion include a redness or irritation around the mouth and throat, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or diarrhea. Topical exposure to calcium oxalate may cause redness or itchiness of the skin. More severe symptoms are possible but rare, as its extreme distastefulness almost always prevents dogs from eating too much of this plant.
More Info About Toxicity
toxic detail more
Toxic to Cats
The leaves, stems, and roots of the chinese taro contain chemical compounds that are moderately to severely harmful to cats, and veterinary attention may be required after contact with this plant. These chemicals, called insoluble calcium oxalates, can cause reactions ranging from irritation to kidney failure in most severe cases. The most common symptoms after contact with the sap of this plant include the swollen mouth, lips, and tongue; difficulty eating, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, drooling, foaming, and seizures. Immediate medical attention is strongly advised.
More Info About Toxicity
toxic detail more
icon
Identify toxic plants in your garden
Find out what’s toxic and what’s safe for your loved one.
Download the App
close
Who Is Most at Risk of Plant Poisoning?
Your pets like cats and dogs can be poisoned by them as well!
1
Do not let your lovely pets eat any parts, nor contact with the sap of toxic or unknown plants;
2
It’s better to kill those growing around your house. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants and gloves with sharp tools to dig it out completely;
3
Clean the tools with rubbing alcohol or soap and water but do not do that with bare hands;
4
Clean your hands and skin once exposed to plants with soap and water;
5
Consider using barrier creams that contain bentoquatam to prevent poison oak, ivy and sumac rashes;
6
Dump it in special trash cans in sealed garbage packages, and do not let your pets reach it;Do not let your lovely pets eat any parts, nor contact with the sap of toxic or unknown plants;
7
If you take your pets to hike with you in the wild, please don’t let them eat any plants that you don’t know;
8
Once your pets eat, touch or inhale anything from toxic plants and act abnormally, please call the doctors for help ASAP!
pets
Pets
Some pets are less likely than children to eat and touch just about everything. This is good, as a pet owner. However, you know your pet best, and it is up to you to keep them safe. There are plenty of poisonous weeds that can grow within the confines of your lawn, which might make your dogs or cats ill or worse if they eat them. Try to have an idea of what toxic plants grow in your area and keep them under control and your pets away from them.
pets
Common Toxic Houseplants
Common Toxic Houseplants
When it comes to decorating a house, there is nothing more refreshing than adding some beautiful houseplants. Some common house plants can also be toxic.

Aloe

aloe
Aloe is famous for its sunburn-soothing properties and its gorgeous desert design. However, many people do not realize that the latex the aloe vera plant produces can be mildly toxic to pets and children.

The latex contains a chemical compound known as saponin. Which when ingested, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and low blood sugar. This, if left unchecked, can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. The proper response is to contact poison control or a veterinarian to know what to do in your particular circumstance if either your child or pet consumes aloe.

The latex of the plant is similar to the sap of the tree. It is inside the leaf, but sticks mainly toward the edges. If aloe gel is prepared properly it should be safe for use, but be sure to apply it only topically when treating burns.

Philodendron

Philodendron
Philodendron, also known as sweetheart vine, has become a resident at many houses and even businesses. They are glossy green and the leaves elegantly split, displaying interesting designs. Behind this beauty there is a needle-like toxin called calcium oxalate crystals.

These crystals are held within the plant and only affect you, your pets, or your loved ones if the plant tissue is broken. If ingested, the crystals can cause severe swelling, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, burning and pain. If they are accidentally caught on the skin, they can cause skin irritation.

If anyone accidentally ingests philodendron and they find it difficult to breathe or their tongue starts to swell up, it is important to seek medical attention immediately to avoid suffocation. If you have very young children or pets who have a tendency to tear at plants, keep them away from any philodendrons.

Peace Lily

Peace Lily
Peace lilies produce stunningly white flowers that bring to mind peace and serenity. This is one reason they are invited into our homes and given a place to stay. However, similar to philodendrons, the peace lily contains oxalate crystals known as raphides.

The raphides, once ingested, will cause swelling and burning sensations and can also cause skin irritation. Both pets and humans can get these symptoms so it is important to keep these plants from anyone who is likely to tear or chew it. Symptoms can become dire if the raphides cause the tongue and throat to swell to a point where the person or pet is having difficulty breathing. Seek proper medical attention if this is the case.

Snake Plant

Snake Plant
The snake plant is an interesting and popular house plant. Its stark architecture and wavy coloring has made it a fan favorite. This plant too, however, is toxic when ingested or if the sap touches your skin.

Snake plant sap will cause rashes if it comes into contact with your skin. In addition, it will cause diarrhea and vomiting when ingested. Again these symptoms are very serious and would be best avoided by keeping snake plants out of reach or by choosing a different houseplant.
Common Toxic Garden Plants
Common Toxic Garden Plants

Daffodil

Daffodil
Daffodils are a strikingly colorful flower. This can sometimes bring them much attention not from just onlooking adults but children as well. Since kids are more drawn to colorful objects, they may have a higher chance of just grabbing the flower and eating it. Adults have also been known to accidentally grab daffodil bulbs instead of onions.

Why are these mistakes so dangerous? Daffodils contain lycorine, which can induce nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It also contains oxalates which can cause swelling and pain. The symptoms can be worse in animals, because if your pets eat daffodils they may experience drowsiness, low blood pressure or even liver damage.

Make sure to call poison control when these symptoms set in. The vomiting and diarrhea have been known to go away after 3 hours, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Ingesting liquids to keep hydration up can be important. If the patient is having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

Hydrangea

Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are unique, with their soft blue and pink flowers. They are a great addition to any garden, but should not be snacked on—not that you would want to. Hydrangeas can be especially nasty because they contain compounds known as glycosides. These will release hydrogen cyanide into the bloodstream when consumed. This will block your body’s ability to uptake oxygen to the cells in your body.

The way to combat this kind of poisoning is through getting IVs from the vet or doctor. It is important to contact your medical professional immediately since the symptoms can be fatal within minutes or hours.

Rhododendrons

Rhododendrons
Rhododendron, the state flower of Washington, is also toxic. The multitudinous, pink flowers can be quite dangerous. All parts of this plant are toxic, the leaves and seeds more so than the flowers. However, even the nectar of the flower is toxic and in the Mediterranean, where rhododendrons grow in more dense quantities, the honey from bees who gather rhododendron nectar can be poisonous.

Normally kids and pets do not eat enough to experience the full poisoning effect. However, just eating two leaves is enough to be considered dangerous. The grayanotoxin glycosides within the rhododendron can cause vomiting, diarrhea and irregular heartbeats. Things can get very serious when too much rhododendron is consumed and can lead to necessary medical intervention.

Start by calling poison control first if you suspect anyone has been munching on rhododendrons. The experts there will be able to help guide you through the necessary processes to cure your loved one.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb
Yummy rhubarb has a nasty side to it. While the stems are used in many recipes, including for rhubarb strawberry pie, the leaves are toxic. They contain oxalic acid which is known to blister the mouth, cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and kidney stones. The leaves are known to be more toxic to pets than humans, but in either case, it is important to contact poison control immediately to figure out necessary steps to cure the patient.
Common Toxic Weeds in the Yard
Common Toxic Weeds in the Yard

Bittersweet Nightshade

Bittersweet Nightshade
Nightshade is an invasive, noxious weed that is extremely poisonous. It has been found along the East and West Coast of the U.S. It makes its home in areas with disturbed soil. This could be near your garden or areas that have recently had bushes/trees put in.

These plants are dark green with purple flowers that develop into bright red berries. The whole plant is toxic and should be avoided by pets and children alike. If ingested it can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The colorful berries are especially enticing to young children. If you see any plants that look similar to tomato or pepper plants that you did not plant in your yard, it is best to just pull them immediately.

Call poison control immediately if you think someone has fallen victim to nightshade.

Buttercups

Buttercups
Buttercups are found throughout the United States, especially in wet areas. The shiny, yellow flowers will pop up in the springtime, accompanying their dandelion friends. However, unlike dandelions, buttercups are not edible.

Buttercups will release a compound called protoanemonin. This toxin is known to cause vomiting, diarrhea, bloody stool, hypersalivation, depression, blisters, and more. These symptoms will affect both humans and animals. The sap may also cause irritation when it comes into contact with skin. These yellow flowers are dangerous and children should be observed cautiously when around them.

Foxgloves

Foxgloves
Foxgloves are beautiful plants that build towers out of vivid purple bell-shaped blossoms. They are very pretty to look at, but they contain a compound known as digoxin. This chemical is used in certain medicines to help people with certain heart conditions. However, the medicine is made by specialists, whereas someone eating foxgloves will receive unregulated amounts of the chemical.

This toxin can make you vomit and lower your heartbeat. This often causes dizziness and faintness. It is extremely important to call poison control immediately to know what to do in the case of foxglove poisoning. Some people have confused the young leaves of foxglove with borage, making adult foragers at risk as well as kids and pets.
How to Tend to or Get Rid of Toxic Plants
How to Tend to or Get Rid of Toxic Plants
Now that you know where to start with toxic plant identification, let us discuss how to either tend to the poisonous plants you decide to keep or get rid of them that plague your yard.

How to Tend to Poisonous Plants

Many plants that are toxic when ingested are also skin irritants. The philodendron is a good example of this. When the sap comes into contact with skin, it can cause a rash to form. To help protect yourself when tending to toxic plants, it is important to wear some sort of gloves.
Tend
Latex gloves may be the best solution due to their disposability. Regular gloves could potentially keep the poisonous sap on their surface. If the gloves aren’t cleaned then you could accidentally touch the irritant or pass it to someone else.

In addition you will want to plan where to keep your deadly beauties. If you have a toxic indoor plant try to keep it up high or out of reach of children and pets. This will keep accidents few and far between. Another idea is keeping your plants in areas that are usually inaccessible to children or pets. Areas such as an office, study room, or guest bedroom could be good locations. If applicable, you could also set up a terrarium for your little plant baby, making it more difficult for curious hands or paws to access.
tend2
If you plan to have outdoor plants, location will be key. You will want to put plants in an area that will be inaccessible to children, pets and even wild animals. You will probably want to avoid planting the plants in the front of your house if kids walk by on a regular basis, just to be cautious. Having the plants behind a fence will be best, but use your discretion when choosing a spot.

How to Get Rid of Poisonous Plants

plants
The easiest but possibly most controversial way to get rid of poisonous plants is by using herbicides. This can be especially easy if you own a grass lawn and use an herbicide that targets broadleaf (non-grass) species. You can find many herbicides meant for yard use by simply searching the term online. Once you have purchased the herbicide you will want to make sure to follow the label posted on the container. If you follow the instructions precisely, then everything should run smoothly for you.

If you don’t plan on using herbicides, there are a few organic methods you can use to try to get rid of toxic plants. You can manually pull the plants out of the ground. This is probably one of the most difficult methods because there is no assurance that you will get the whole plant out this way.

You can also try pouring boiling hot water or spraying white vinegar on the target plants. This may take more time than using a synthetic herbicide, but you can feel a little better about using these products.

You can also try to use wood chips to cover a certain area where you do not want anything to grow. This will not stop all the weeds, but the few that make it through can be easily picked by hand.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
close
Who Is Most at Risk of Plant Poisoning?
Everyone should keep the following in mind to prevent being poisoned:
1
Do not eat any parts, nor contact with the sap of toxic or unknown plants;
2
If you need to kill it, wear long-sleeved shirts, pants and gloves with sharp tools to dig it out completely;
3
Clean the tools with rubbing alcohol or soap and water but do not do that with bare hands;
4
Clean your hands and skin once exposed to plants with soap and water;
5
Consider using barrier creams that contain bentoquatam to prevent poison oak, ivy and sumac rashes;
6
Dump it in special trash cans in sealed garbage packages;
7
Wear properly when you hiking or working in the wilderness. Long pants, long sleeves, gloves, hiking shoes, etc., that protect you from being hurt by any plants;
8
Once you or your family aren’t feeling well after eating, touching or inhaling anything from toxic plants, please call your doctor for help ASAP!
Outdoor Workers
Outdoor Workers and Recreationalists
Those who enjoy the outdoors either as a hobby or as part of their work will rarely see a plant and decide to munch on it (although the scenario is not unheard of). However, they do tend to deal with moving through and brushing aside plants. These people are more at risk of being poisoned by touching toxic plants than by ingesting them.
Outdoor Workers
Foragers
Foragers
Foraging for food and medicinal plants is a desirable skill among people who want to feel at one with the land. This hobby can be very useful and enjoyable, but if done wrong , it can lead to disastrous effects. People who forage are picking and grabbing plants with the full intention of using those plants, most of the time to ingest them.
Foragers
Children
Children
While outdoor workers are more likely to touch poison and foragers are more likely to ingest poison, children can easily do both. These bundles of joy just love to run around and explore the world. They enjoy touching things and occasionally shoving random stuff in their mouth; this is a terrible combination with toxic plants in the mix.
If you let your children run about, it is important to know what are the local toxic plants that they could accidentally get into. Try to educate the children and steer them away from where the toxic plants are located.
Children
Common Toxic Houseplants
Common Toxic Houseplants
When it comes to decorating a house, there is nothing more refreshing than adding some beautiful houseplants. Some common house plants can also be toxic.

Aloe

aloe
Aloe is famous for its sunburn-soothing properties and its gorgeous desert design. However, many people do not realize that the latex the aloe vera plant produces can be mildly toxic to pets and children.

The latex contains a chemical compound known as saponin. Which when ingested, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and low blood sugar. This, if left unchecked, can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. The proper response is to contact poison control or a veterinarian to know what to do in your particular circumstance if either your child or pet consumes aloe.

The latex of the plant is similar to the sap of the tree. It is inside the leaf, but sticks mainly toward the edges. If aloe gel is prepared properly it should be safe for use, but be sure to apply it only topically when treating burns.

Philodendron

Philodendron
Philodendron, also known as sweetheart vine, has become a resident at many houses and even businesses. They are glossy green and the leaves elegantly split, displaying interesting designs. Behind this beauty there is a needle-like toxin called calcium oxalate crystals.

These crystals are held within the plant and only affect you, your pets, or your loved ones if the plant tissue is broken. If ingested, the crystals can cause severe swelling, difficulty breathing, stomach pain, burning and pain. If they are accidentally caught on the skin, they can cause skin irritation.

If anyone accidentally ingests philodendron and they find it difficult to breathe or their tongue starts to swell up, it is important to seek medical attention immediately to avoid suffocation. If you have very young children or pets who have a tendency to tear at plants, keep them away from any philodendrons.

Peace Lily

Peace Lily
Peace lilies produce stunningly white flowers that bring to mind peace and serenity. This is one reason they are invited into our homes and given a place to stay. However, similar to philodendrons, the peace lily contains oxalate crystals known as raphides.

The raphides, once ingested, will cause swelling and burning sensations and can also cause skin irritation. Both pets and humans can get these symptoms so it is important to keep these plants from anyone who is likely to tear or chew it. Symptoms can become dire if the raphides cause the tongue and throat to swell to a point where the person or pet is having difficulty breathing. Seek proper medical attention if this is the case.

Snake Plant

Snake Plant
The snake plant is an interesting and popular house plant. Its stark architecture and wavy coloring has made it a fan favorite. This plant too, however, is toxic when ingested or if the sap touches your skin.

Snake plant sap will cause rashes if it comes into contact with your skin. In addition, it will cause diarrhea and vomiting when ingested. Again these symptoms are very serious and would be best avoided by keeping snake plants out of reach or by choosing a different houseplant.
Common Toxic Garden Plants
Common Toxic Garden Plants

Daffodil

Daffodil
Daffodils are a strikingly colorful flower. This can sometimes bring them much attention not from just onlooking adults but children as well. Since kids are more drawn to colorful objects, they may have a higher chance of just grabbing the flower and eating it. Adults have also been known to accidentally grab daffodil bulbs instead of onions.

Why are these mistakes so dangerous? Daffodils contain lycorine, which can induce nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It also contains oxalates which can cause swelling and pain. The symptoms can be worse in animals, because if your pets eat daffodils they may experience drowsiness, low blood pressure or even liver damage.

Make sure to call poison control when these symptoms set in. The vomiting and diarrhea have been known to go away after 3 hours, but it is better to be safe than sorry. Ingesting liquids to keep hydration up can be important. If the patient is having difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.

Hydrangea

Hydrangea
Hydrangeas are unique, with their soft blue and pink flowers. They are a great addition to any garden, but should not be snacked on—not that you would want to. Hydrangeas can be especially nasty because they contain compounds known as glycosides. These will release hydrogen cyanide into the bloodstream when consumed. This will block your body’s ability to uptake oxygen to the cells in your body.

The way to combat this kind of poisoning is through getting IVs from the vet or doctor. It is important to contact your medical professional immediately since the symptoms can be fatal within minutes or hours.

Rhododendrons

Rhododendrons
Rhododendron, the state flower of Washington, is also toxic. The multitudinous, pink flowers can be quite dangerous. All parts of this plant are toxic, the leaves and seeds more so than the flowers. However, even the nectar of the flower is toxic and in the Mediterranean, where rhododendrons grow in more dense quantities, the honey from bees who gather rhododendron nectar can be poisonous.

Normally kids and pets do not eat enough to experience the full poisoning effect. However, just eating two leaves is enough to be considered dangerous. The grayanotoxin glycosides within the rhododendron can cause vomiting, diarrhea and irregular heartbeats. Things can get very serious when too much rhododendron is consumed and can lead to necessary medical intervention.

Start by calling poison control first if you suspect anyone has been munching on rhododendrons. The experts there will be able to help guide you through the necessary processes to cure your loved one.

Rhubarb

Rhubarb
Yummy rhubarb has a nasty side to it. While the stems are used in many recipes, including for rhubarb strawberry pie, the leaves are toxic. They contain oxalic acid which is known to blister the mouth, cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and kidney stones. The leaves are known to be more toxic to pets than humans, but in either case, it is important to contact poison control immediately to figure out necessary steps to cure the patient.
Common Toxic Weeds in the Yard
Common Toxic Weeds in the Yard

Bittersweet Nightshade

Bittersweet Nightshade
Nightshade is an invasive, noxious weed that is extremely poisonous. It has been found along the East and West Coast of the U.S. It makes its home in areas with disturbed soil. This could be near your garden or areas that have recently had bushes/trees put in.

These plants are dark green with purple flowers that develop into bright red berries. The whole plant is toxic and should be avoided by pets and children alike. If ingested it can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The colorful berries are especially enticing to young children. If you see any plants that look similar to tomato or pepper plants that you did not plant in your yard, it is best to just pull them immediately.

Call poison control immediately if you think someone has fallen victim to nightshade.

Buttercups

Buttercups
Buttercups are found throughout the United States, especially in wet areas. The shiny, yellow flowers will pop up in the springtime, accompanying their dandelion friends. However, unlike dandelions, buttercups are not edible.

Buttercups will release a compound called protoanemonin. This toxin is known to cause vomiting, diarrhea, bloody stool, hypersalivation, depression, blisters, and more. These symptoms will affect both humans and animals. The sap may also cause irritation when it comes into contact with skin. These yellow flowers are dangerous and children should be observed cautiously when around them.

Foxgloves

Foxgloves
Foxgloves are beautiful plants that build towers out of vivid purple bell-shaped blossoms. They are very pretty to look at, but they contain a compound known as digoxin. This chemical is used in certain medicines to help people with certain heart conditions. However, the medicine is made by specialists, whereas someone eating foxgloves will receive unregulated amounts of the chemical.

This toxin can make you vomit and lower your heartbeat. This often causes dizziness and faintness. It is extremely important to call poison control immediately to know what to do in the case of foxglove poisoning. Some people have confused the young leaves of foxglove with borage, making adult foragers at risk as well as kids and pets.
How to Tend to or Get Rid of Toxic Plants
How to Tend to or Get Rid of Toxic Plants
Now that you know where to start with toxic plant identification, let us discuss how to either tend to the poisonous plants you decide to keep or get rid of them that plague your yard.

How to Tend to Poisonous Plants

Many plants that are toxic when ingested are also skin irritants. The philodendron is a good example of this. When the sap comes into contact with skin, it can cause a rash to form. To help protect yourself when tending to toxic plants, it is important to wear some sort of gloves.
Tend
Latex gloves may be the best solution due to their disposability. Regular gloves could potentially keep the poisonous sap on their surface. If the gloves aren’t cleaned then you could accidentally touch the irritant or pass it to someone else.

In addition you will want to plan where to keep your deadly beauties. If you have a toxic indoor plant try to keep it up high or out of reach of children and pets. This will keep accidents few and far between. Another idea is keeping your plants in areas that are usually inaccessible to children or pets. Areas such as an office, study room, or guest bedroom could be good locations. If applicable, you could also set up a terrarium for your little plant baby, making it more difficult for curious hands or paws to access.
tend2
If you plan to have outdoor plants, location will be key. You will want to put plants in an area that will be inaccessible to children, pets and even wild animals. You will probably want to avoid planting the plants in the front of your house if kids walk by on a regular basis, just to be cautious. Having the plants behind a fence will be best, but use your discretion when choosing a spot.

How to Get Rid of Poisonous Plants

plants
The easiest but possibly most controversial way to get rid of poisonous plants is by using herbicides. This can be especially easy if you own a grass lawn and use an herbicide that targets broadleaf (non-grass) species. You can find many herbicides meant for yard use by simply searching the term online. Once you have purchased the herbicide you will want to make sure to follow the label posted on the container. If you follow the instructions precisely, then everything should run smoothly for you.

If you don’t plan on using herbicides, there are a few organic methods you can use to try to get rid of toxic plants. You can manually pull the plants out of the ground. This is probably one of the most difficult methods because there is no assurance that you will get the whole plant out this way.

You can also try pouring boiling hot water or spraying white vinegar on the target plants. This may take more time than using a synthetic herbicide, but you can feel a little better about using these products.

You can also try to use wood chips to cover a certain area where you do not want anything to grow. This will not stop all the weeds, but the few that make it through can be easily picked by hand.
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
weed

Weed Control About Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback
weed
Toxic weed
Although considered a common ornamental, chinese taro can be mildly toxic to humans as well as animals. The insoluble oxalate crystals found in the plant will irritate the skin once contact and cause oral pain when ingested.
icon
Do you have weeds in your garden?
Differentiate them from your plants by a picture, and learn how to control them.
Download the App
distribution

Distribution of Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback

Habitat of Chinese taro

Human habitation, disturbed areas
Northern Hemisphere
South Hemisphere

Distribution Map of Chinese taro

Chinese taro is native to the tropical regions of Asia and thrives in a variety of environments within its natural range. Beyond its native habitat, chinese taro has been introduced to multiple other tropical and subtropical regions where it is cultivated for its ornamental value. In some parts where it has been introduced, chinese taro is sometimes thought to be mildly competitive with local flora but has not been widely reported to severely disrupt ecosystems. It is well-established both in its natural habitat and in areas where it has been introduced for cultivation.
distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
plant_info

Plants Related to Chinese taro

feedback
Feedback
feedback
product icon close
Your Ultimate Guide to Plants
Identify grow and nurture the better way!
product icon
17,000 local species +400,000 global species studied
product icon
Nearly 5 years of research
product icon
80+ scholars in botany and gardening
ad
product icon close
Continue reading in our app - it's better
A database of 400000+ plants
unlimited guides at your fingertips...
Lighting
close
Indoor
Indoor
Outdoor
Choose a site here for personalized care tips.
Requirements
Partial sun
Ideal
About 3-6 hours sunlight
Full sun, Full shade
Tolerance
Above 6 hours sunlight
Watch how sunlight gracefully moves through your garden, and choose spots that provide the perfect balance of light and shade for your plants, ensuring their happiness.
Essentials
Chinese taro thrives in areas receiving consistent yet not uninterrupted sunlight. It can adapt to environments receiving sunlight all day or very minimal sunlight. Yet, access to mild sun is crucial for healthy, vigorous growth. Excessive or insufficient light exposure may harm its development, affecting its vitality negatively.
Preferred
Tolerable
Unsuitable
icon
Know the light your plants really get.
Find the best spots for them to optimize their health, simply using your phone.
Download the App
Artificial lighting
Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
View more
Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.
Important Symptoms
Symptoms of Insufficient Light in %s
Chinese taro is a versatile plant that thrives in partial sunlight but can tolerate full sunlight in cooler weather. Although symptoms of light deficiency may not be easily noticeable, inadequate light conditions can affect their growth indoors.
View more
(Symptom details and solutions)
Slower or no new growth
Chinese taro enters a survival mode when light conditions are poor, which leads to a halt in leaf production. As a result, the plant's growth becomes delayed or stops altogether.
Lighter-colored new leaves
Insufficient sunlight can cause leaves to develop irregular color patterns or appear pale. This indicates a lack of chlorophyll and essential nutrients.
Small leaves
New leaves may grow smaller in size compared to the previous ones once they have matured.
Solutions
1. To optimize plant growth, shift them to increasingly sunnier spots each week until they receive 3-6 hours of direct sunlight daily, enabling gradual adaptation to changing light conditions.2. To provide additional light for your plant, consider using artificial light if it's large or not easily movable. Keep a desk or ceiling lamp on for at least 8 hours daily, or invest in professional plant grow lights for ample light.
Symptoms of Excessive light in %s
Chinese taro thrives with partial sun exposure but is more prone to sunburn. The intense sunlight during summer can cause leaf sunburn, making it important to provide adequate shade and protection.
View more
(Symptom details and solutions)
Chlorosis
Chlorosis is a condition where the plant's leaves lose their green color and turn yellow. This is due to the breakdown of chlorophyll from excessive sunlight, which negatively affects the plant's ability to photosynthesize.
Sunscald
Sunscald occurs when the plant's leaves or stems are damaged by intense sunlight exposure. It appears as pale, bleached, or necrotic areas on the plant tissue and can reduce the plant's overall health.
Leaf Curling
Leaf curling is a symptom where leaves curl or twist under extreme sunlight conditions. This is a defense mechanism used by the plant to reduce its surface area exposed to sunlight, minimizing water loss and damage.
Wilting
Wilting occurs when a plant loses turgor pressure and its leaves and stems begin to droop. Overexposure to sunlight can cause wilting by increasing the plant's water loss through transpiration, making it difficult for the plant to maintain adequate hydration.
Leaf Scorching
Leaf scorching is a symptom characterized by the appearance of brown, dry, and crispy edges or patches on leaves due to excessive sunlight. This can lead to a reduction in photosynthetic capacity and overall plant health.
Solutions
1. Move your plant to the optimal position where it can receive abundant sunlight but also have some shade. An east-facing window is an ideal choice as the morning sunlight is gentler. This way, your plant can enjoy ample sunlight while reducing the risk of sunburn.2. It is recommended to trim off any completely dehydrated or withered parts of the plant.
Discover information about plant diseases, toxicity, weed control and more.
Temperature
close
Indoor
Indoor
Outdoor
Choose a site here for personalized care tips.
Requirements
Ideal
Tolerable
Unsuitable
Just like people, each plant has its own preferences. Learn about your plants' temperature needs and create a comforting environment for them to flourish. As you care for your plants, your bond with them will deepen. Trust your intuition as you learn about their temperature needs, celebrating the journey you share. Lovingly monitor the temperature around your plants and adjust their environment as needed. A thermometer can be your ally in this heartfelt endeavor. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you explore your plants' temperature needs. Cherish your successes, learn from challenges, and nurture your garden with love, creating a haven that reflects the warmth of your care.
Essentials
The chinese taro plant is native to regions that experience a tropical climate, thus it requires a warm and humid environment to thrive. Its preferred temperature range fluctuates between 68 to 100 ℉ (20 to 38 ℃), with an optimal temperature of around 82 ℉ (28 ℃). In cooler temperatures, the plant may become dormant, whereas excessive heat can cause stress on the foliage. During winter, it is suggested to keep the temperature above 60 ℉ (15.5 ℃) to prevent leaf drop and root rot.
Regional wintering strategies
Chinese taro is extremely heat-loving, and any cold temperatures can cause harm to it. In the autumn, it is recommended to bring outdoor-grown Chinese taro indoors and place it near a bright window, but it should be kept at a certain distance from heaters. Maintaining temperatures above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min} during winter is beneficial for plant growth. Any temperatures approaching {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min} are detrimental to the plant.
Important Symptoms
Symptoms of Low Temperature in Chinese taro
Chinese taro prefers warm temperatures and is not tolerant of low temperatures. It thrives best when the temperature is above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min}. During winter, it should be kept above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. When the temperature falls below {Limit_growth_temperature}, the leaves may lighten in color. After frost damage, the color gradually turns brown or black, and symptoms such as wilting and drooping may occur.
Solutions
Trim off the frost-damaged parts. Immediately move indoors to a warm environment for cold protection. Choose a spot near a south-facing window to place the plant, ensuring ample sunlight. Additionally, avoid placing the plant near heaters or air conditioning vents to prevent excessive dryness in the air.
Symptoms of High Temperature in Chinese taro
During summer, Chinese taro should be kept below {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}. When the temperature exceeds {Tolerable_growing_temperature_max}, the color of the leaves becomes lighter, and the plant becomes more susceptible to sunburn.
Solutions
Trim away the sunburned and dried-up parts. Move the plant to a location that provides shade from the midday and afternoon sun. Water the plant in the morning and evening to keep the soil moist.
Discover information about plant diseases, toxicity, weed control and more.
Toxic
close
The Toxicity of Chinese taro
Slightly Toxic to Humans
Human
All Parts
Toxic parts
Eaten
Effect methods
Is Chinese Taro toxic to dog?
Chinese taro (genus Alocasia cucullata) can be moderately toxic to dogs. All parts of these plants contain sap filled with calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause both topical and gastrointestinal irritation. Symptoms of ingestion include a redness or irritation around the mouth and throat, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, difficulty swallowing, vomiting, or diarrhea. Topical exposure to calcium oxalate may cause redness or itchiness of the skin. More severe symptoms are possible but rare, as its extreme distastefulness almost always prevents dogs from eating too much of this plant.
Is Chinese Taro toxic to cat?
The leaves, stems, and roots of the chinese taro contain chemical compounds that are moderately to severely harmful to cats, and veterinary attention may be required after contact with this plant. These chemicals, called insoluble calcium oxalates, can cause reactions ranging from irritation to kidney failure in most severe cases. The most common symptoms after contact with the sap of this plant include the swollen mouth, lips, and tongue; difficulty eating, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, drooling, foaming, and seizures. Immediate medical attention is strongly advised.
How to identify Chinese Taro
* The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.
Discover information about plant diseases, toxicity, weed control and more.
Cookie Management Tool
In addition to managing cookies through your browser or device, you can change your cookie settings below.
Necessary Cookies
Necessary cookies enable core functionality. The website cannot function properly without these cookies, and can only be disabled by changing your browser preferences.
Analytical Cookies
Analytical cookies help us to improve our application/website by collecting and reporting information on its usage.
Cookie Name Source Purpose Lifespan
_ga Google Analytics These cookies are set because of our use of Google Analytics. They are used to collect information about your use of our application/website. The cookies collect specific information, such as your IP address, data related to your device and other information about your use of the application/website. Please note that the data processing is essentially carried out by Google LLC and Google may use your data collected by the cookies for own purposes, e.g. profiling and will combine it with other data such as your Google Account. For more information about how Google processes your data and Google’s approach to privacy as well as implemented safeguards for your data, please see here. 1 Year
_pta PictureThis Analytics We use these cookies to collect information about how you use our site, monitor site performance, and improve our site performance, our services, and your experience. 1 Year
Cookie Name
_ga
Source
Google Analytics
Purpose
These cookies are set because of our use of Google Analytics. They are used to collect information about your use of our application/website. The cookies collect specific information, such as your IP address, data related to your device and other information about your use of the application/website. Please note that the data processing is essentially carried out by Google LLC and Google may use your data collected by the cookies for own purposes, e.g. profiling and will combine it with other data such as your Google Account. For more information about how Google processes your data and Google’s approach to privacy as well as implemented safeguards for your data, please see here.
Lifespan
1 Year

Cookie Name
_pta
Source
PictureThis Analytics
Purpose
We use these cookies to collect information about how you use our site, monitor site performance, and improve our site performance, our services, and your experience.
Lifespan
1 Year
Marketing Cookies
Marketing cookies are used by advertising companies to serve ads that are relevant to your interests.
Cookie Name Source Purpose Lifespan
_fbp Facebook Pixel A conversion pixel tracking that we use for retargeting campaigns. Learn more here. 1 Year
_adj Adjust This cookie provides mobile analytics and attribution services that enable us to measure and analyze the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, certain events and actions within the Application. Learn more here. 1 Year
Cookie Name
_fbp
Source
Facebook Pixel
Purpose
A conversion pixel tracking that we use for retargeting campaigns. Learn more here.
Lifespan
1 Year

Cookie Name
_adj
Source
Adjust
Purpose
This cookie provides mobile analytics and attribution services that enable us to measure and analyze the effectiveness of marketing campaigns, certain events and actions within the Application. Learn more here.
Lifespan
1 Year
This page looks better in the app
Open